Enamel fluoride uptake from mouthrinse solutions with different NaF concentrations

Area of Science:

• Dental Public Health
• Pediatric Dentistry
• Fluoride Chemistry

Background:

• School-based fluoride mouthrinsing programs are crucial for preventing childhood caries.
• Historically, 0.05% sodium fluoride (NaF) mouthrinse has been widely used.
• Adjustments in NaF concentration require evaluation to ensure continued efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of halving NaF concentration in a school mouthrinse program from 0.05% to 0.025% on enamel fluoride uptake.
• To determine if the reduced NaF concentration affects caries development (DMFT index).

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study involving elementary school children was conducted.
• Enamel biopsy and dental examinations were performed before and after NaF concentration reduction.
• A control group without fluoride exposure was included for comparison.

Main Results:

• Children using 0.025% NaF mouthrinse for two years achieved enamel fluoride concentrations comparable to those using 0.05% NaF.
• Enamel fluoride levels were significantly higher in both NaF groups compared to the control group.
• No significant increase in DMFT (decayed, missing, or filled teeth) was observed after reducing NaF concentration.

Conclusions:

• Daily 0.025% NaF mouthrinsing provides equivalent enamel fluoride levels to 0.05% NaF when rinsing frequency is consistent.
• Reduced NaF concentration in school mouthrinse programs can be effective in maintaining caries prevention.
• This finding supports the potential for cost-effective adjustments in public oral health initiatives.